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Carp taking advantage of increased role

5/24/13: Mike Carp cranks a three-run homer over the bullpen in right, giving the Red Sox the lead in the bottom of the second inning

By Ian Browne
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MLB.com |

BOSTON -- The injury to Shane Victorino has at least provided the chance for Mike Carp to play somewhat regularly, and the Red Sox outfielder is taking advantage of the opportunity.

In Friday's win over the Indians, Carp belted a three-run homer. He was again in the lineup on Sunday.

"Well in the absence of Shane, the combination of he and Jonny [Gomes] have been productive," said Red Sox manager John Farrell. "I think there's become a little bit of a flow and understanding by both guys, knowing where their spot in the game and certainly against certain starters, where they're going to get a start on a given day.

"But to their credit, the guys that have been coming off the bench or spot starting, they've contributed," said Farrell. "We've gotten contributions from really every guy on this roster, and in Mike's situation, it's probably been in some moments of the game were they've been a little more focal or against a very good right-handed starter in [Justin] Masterson. He's given us a huge lift coming off the bench."

During Victorino's absence, Daniel Nava has moved from left field to right field.

"[Daniel has played] to the best of his abilities," Farrell said. "Shane has shown us exceptional range and very good play in right field. We don't compare Daniel against Shane. Daniel is going to give us the best of his abilities that that he has on a given day. All around, though, when you look at the way he's swung the bat, the way he's played defensively, he's having a very good year."

Ian Browne is a reporter for MLB.com. Read his blog, Brownie Points, and follow him on Twitter @IanMBrowne. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.